UPDATE: Early voting for the 2025 NYC mayoral election is off to a historic start, with over 160,000 voters casting their ballots across the city this weekend. The New York City Board of Elections reported a staggering 164,190 check-ins in just two days, marking an unprecedented turnout that could reshape the election landscape.
This surge comes as voters prepare for Election Day on November 4, 2025. Early voting, which continues until November 2, has seen Brooklyn and Manhattan leading the charge, with 49,432 and 49,191 check-ins, respectively. Queens followed with 38,791, while the Bronx and Staten Island reported 14,225 and 12,551 check-ins.
The record-breaking participation is particularly noteworthy when compared to the 2021 mayoral election, where the first two days saw just 31,176 voters. This year’s turnout highlights a growing voter engagement, with many attributing their participation to the high stakes of the current race.
Voters expressed their preferences clearly during this initial voting period. Many in neighborhoods such as Morningside Heights and Harlem voiced strong support for Democratic frontrunner Zohran Mamdani, while others rallied behind independent candidate and former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Support for Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa appeared limited in traditionally Democratic areas, although he has gained traction compared to his previous campaign.
At P.S. 175 in Harlem, voters Sara Serpa and Andre Matos praised Mamdani’s vision for the city. “I think he has a vision, there’s hope in him, and he’s fighting for the right causes,” Serpa stated. Meanwhile, Carla Drummond and Ken Wilson highlighted Cuomo’s political experience, emphasizing his ability to challenge former President Trump.
Cuomo’s campaign has focused on his past governance experience and his opposition to Trump, which he describes as a “dysfunctional marriage.” Although Trump has not endorsed a candidate, he has openly opposed Mamdani, intensifying the election’s dynamics.
With nine days remaining until Election Day, the enthusiasm among voters remains palpable. Many are not only voting for the mayor but also considering numerous candidates for other offices and various ballot propositions.
The NYC Board of Elections urges voters to find their early voting locations at findmypollsite.vote.nyc and participate in this pivotal election. This is a critical moment in New York City’s political landscape as the race heats up and voter engagement surges.
As early voting continues, the implications of this turnout could significantly influence the direction of the city for years to come.
